Doctoral Degree in Physiology
Who is this program for?
Our doctoral program in physiology is suited for individuals interested in studying the functions and mechanisms of living organisms at the cellular, organ, and systems levels, with applications to health, disease, and medicine. Graduates can pursue careers in academia, biomedical research, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare, contributing to advancements in areas such as cardiovascular health, neurophysiology, and metabolic disorders.
Program Overview
The PhD in Physiology program offers advanced training in the study of how biological systems function, from the cellular and molecular level to the whole organism. Students engage in rigorous research and interdisciplinary coursework to explore areas such as cardiovascular physiology, neurophysiology, endocrine regulation, and metabolic control. With close faculty mentorship and access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities, graduates are well-prepared for careers in academic research, biomedical industries, healthcare, and government agencies, where they contribute to advancing knowledge of human and animal physiology and improving health outcomes.
The Department of Physiology is a diverse community of basic science researchers. Our areas of research include cardiovascular, neuroscience, metabolic disease and aging. Our award-winning investigators are making major advances in biomedical research. Our training programs are preparing scientists for successful careers in academia, industry and government. Our education faculty touch the lives of over 2,000 undergraduate, professional and graduate students each academic year.
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What You'll Learn
Degree requirements, course descriptions and academic policies for all programs are detailed in the University Catalog.
Admission Requirements
Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Application Requirements
Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Additional Requirements listed below, those program-specific requirements also apply.
Program Specific Requirements
Students first apply to the Integrated Biomedical Sciences PhD program, and after successful completion of the 1-year curriculum, students can select this doctoral program to pursue their dissertation research and PhD degree.

Explore Funding Options
As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program!

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